Highest Paying Jobs in Public Health By Staff

Some of the highest paying professional and technical jobs in America are in public health, as well as some of the fastest-growing. As the healthcare sector in general has exploded in the 21st century, public health has become an overarching concern. Prevention is better than a cure, after all, and promoting health throughout whole populations has real world benefits: not only preventing disease and improving quality of life, but lowering medical costs and reducing economic losses from sickness.

The public health field offers a wide range of career opportunities at all education levels. From management and administration to field research and clinical care; from the laboratory to the classroom; from spreadsheets to hazardous waste: public health has a place for all.

Here are 45 of the top paying jobs in public health, organized from highest to lowest salary. Salary rates are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data; the BLS is also the source of information about education requirements and working conditions. If you are interested in earning a degree in public health, be sure to check out ourrankings of public health degree programs, including thetop online MPH programs.

Jobs are ranked by the BLS median salary, from highest to lowest.

1. Public Health Attorney

Public health attorneys work with local, state and national legislatures to craft policies, set regulations and pass laws governing public health standards. In addition, public health attorneys work as advocates for patients and victims, balancing the public good against the individual’s rights. Some public health attorneys pursue lawsuits against organizations that violate public health standards, on behalf of victims or of the government.

Typical Workplace Environment Most public health attorneys work out of an office. They may work for a government agency, a non-profit organization or even a traditional law firm. Occasionally, public health attorneys may work in the field or in the courtroom.

Education/Training Requirements: JD To become a public health attorney, an individual must hold a Juris Doctor (JD) degree and be licensed to practice law in the state. Additionally, a specialty in health law is helpful for attorneys who want to specialize in public health.

Salary: $118,160 Attorneys are highly educated and well paid. The BLS median salary for attorneys is $118,160. Although health specializations in law give attorneys some advantage, competition for any legal job is high; job growth in this field is average, at 8%.

2. Health and Wellness Manager

Health and wellness managers oversee the development of plans for the health and wellness of groups of people, such as in corporations, universities, or medical centers. They will also make sure these plans are implemented, and communicate the results. Most health and wellness managers also provide health education classes or seminars. They are required to conduct research to gauge the success of health programs.

Typical Workplace Environment Health and wellness managers work both in public health facilities and for private corporations. They spend the majority of their time working in a traditional office environment but are also required to interact with the general public or corporate employees in order to conduct basic research and offer health education.

Education/Training Requirements: Bachelor’s Most health and wellness managers hold at least a bachelor’s degree in health, public health, nutrition, exercise science, or some related field. Some employers require individuals in these roles to hold M.A. degrees in public health.

Salary: $96,540 Salaries for health and wellness managers vary according to experience level. According to the BLS, the median salary for medical and health services managers is $96,540. Demand for health and wellness managers in both public and private settings is growing much faster than average, at 20% by 2026.

3. Public Health Engineer

Public Health Engineers work to ensure that infrastructure, machinery, and equipment are properly designed and maintained to reduce the risk of injury, illness or infection to the general public.

Typical Workplace Environment Public Health Engineers spend the majority of their time in an office or laboratory setting, but traveling to meet with the public or to do research in the field is not uncommon. Public Health Engineers may work for federal, state, or local government, or they may work in the private sector in research, development, or consulting.

Education/Training Requirements: Bachelor’s Public Health Engineers are typically required to hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in engineering with a concentration in either mechanical engineering, chemical engineering, electrical engineering or industrial engineering. The work of a Public Health Engineer requires a knowledge of both engineering and health, so degree programs are typically interdisciplinary.

Salary: $86,720 The salary for Public Health Engineers can vary according to experience, education and region, but as with any occupation with “engineer” in the title, salaries are consistently high. According to the BLS, median salaries for Health and Safety Engineers run around $86,720. Demand for Public Health Engineers is projected to grow steadily through 2016, at an average rate of 9%.

4. Biostatistician

Biostatisticians use mathematics and statistics in the research of life sciences, which may include disciplines such as public health, medicine, and environmental science. The statistics collected are then interpreted and used as the basis of planning and program implementation.

Typical Workplace Environment The largest employer of biostatisticians is the federal government. Other organizations employing biostatisticians include state and local governments, pharmaceutical companies and private research firms. Most biostatisticians work in offices and laboratories.

Education/Training Requirements: Master’s, Doctorate Although entry-level statistician jobs are available for those who earn a bachelor’s degree, most jobs require at least a master’s degree in mathematics, statistics or a discipline that requires strong research skills. Top jobs for biostatisticians require a Ph.D.

Salary: $81,950 The BLS finds that mathematicians and statisticians are highly sought and highly prized, due to the nature of the field – experts are few and far between. The median salary for a biostatistician should be around $81,950, though statisticians in private industry may be paid much more. The drive toward more Big Data makes this one of the fastest-growing fields in the nation at 33% growth by 2026.

5. Environmentalist/Sanitarian

Public health environmentalists and sanitarians, perform a critical role in protecting public health. Sanitarians identify and study environmental factors that may negatively impact public health. They collect data on environmental threats, and they run experiments to determine the level of threat that various toxins and pollutants may pose to the environment and the public. Sanitarians are also involved in land-use planning, conduct environmental impact studies, oversee sewage sanitation, or aid in crafting new regulatory frameworks and laws.

Typical Workplace Environment Environmentalist/Sanitarians have varied working conditions. Some environmentalists spend most of their time working in a laboratory, and others spend most of their working life collecting samples and data in the field. Senior environmentalists may spend more time working in an office. Healthcare facilities often employ environmentalist/sanitarians as well, per NEHA standards.

Education and Training Requirements: Bachelor’s, Certification To become an environmentalist, an individual must possess at least bachelor’s degree in a relevant scientific field, such as biology or chemistry. Advanced degrees may also be necessary. The National Environmental Health Association (NEHA) recommends that environmentalists and sanitarians earn a Registered Environmental Health Specialist/Registered Sanitarian Credential (REHS/RS).

Salary: $75,360 The BLS classes Environmentalist/Sanitarians within Environmental Scientists and Specialists, including Health, a broad category that involves research, reporting, and managing. Within that category, the median salary is $75,360. Like other environmental careers, the job outlook for Environmentalist/Sanitarian is steady and positive.

6. Nurse Educator

Nurse educators are experienced nurses who teach nursing classes to students and serve as mentors to new nurses. As teachers, they work closely with students, implement coursework, and develop lesson plans. They may also work at the administrative level, advancing to department chairs and college deans in nursing schools.

Typical Workplace Environment Most nurse educators work in the classroom at colleges and universities. Those who serve as deans or administrators work in a more conventional office setting. Clinical nurse educators work at hospitals, community clinics, and medical offices, teaching hands-on skills with real patients. In some cases, nurse educators combine patient care with teaching.

Education and Training Requirements: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate Prior to instructing students, nurse educators must first become registered nurses and have experience caring for patients. They must also keep up with current trends in medicine. At the minimum, a bachelor’s degree is required to teach at the associate’s level or in clinical settings, but most colleges and universities require at least a Master of Science in Nursing, and may require a PhD or Doctor of Nursing Practice.

Salary: $75,030 A typical salary varies by workplace and geographical location, but according to the BLS, the median salary for Nurse Educators at the postsecondary level is $75,030. Teachers in community colleges or diploma programs may make less, while administrators in college or universities can make considerably more. The job market for Nurse Educators is not growing as quickly as nursing itself, but the higher barrier to entry (with graduate schooling) makes for fewer applicants.

7. Epidemiologist

Epidemiologists are tasked with identifying public health problems and determining the cause of illness. By studying patterns in the spread of an illness, epidemiologists can advise public health policy makers on how to eliminate or reduce risk.

Typical Workplace Environment Epidemiologists tend to work in medical facilities including hospitals and laboratories. One of the main employers of epidemiologists is the federal government, particularly the Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Any fieldwork done by these professionals involves examining illness in the community, which may expose them to some risks.

Education/Training Requirement: Master’s, Doctorate Epidemiologist are required to have a minimum of a master’s degree in epidemiology. Some employers required epidemiologists to hold a PhD in the field.

Salary: $70,820 According to the BLS, an epidemiologist can expect a median salary of $70,820. While public health is a growing field, epidemiology itself is growing at the average rate of 8% between 2016 and 2026.

8. Emergency Preparedness Specialist

Emergency preparedness specialists are responsible for providing emergency preparedness training to first responders and the general public. They are also required to evaluate community-wide emergency preparedness and may formulate disaster or terrorism response plans.

Typical Workplace Environment Emergency preparedness specialists generally work for municipal, state and federal public safety offices. They are required to interface with other safety professionals and make regular trips to community centers, schools and other public gathering places. Some specialists work in industrial facilities.

Education/Training Requirements: Bachelor’s The majority of emergency preparedness specialists have a bachelor’s degree in emergency management, public safety, or a related discipline. Since 9/11 and the establishment of the Department of Homeland Security, specialized degrees in the field have become common. Specialists generally have previous experience in the field of emergency preparedness and management before taking on the position.

Salary: $70,500 Salaries for emergency preparedness specialists can depend on the region and the position; specialists employed in private industry or federal agencies tend to make more than state or local authorities. By BLS statistics, professionals in the emergency management field can expect to make a median salary of $70,500. With the continued growth of the security sector, demand for these specialists is expected to rise steadily for the foreseeable future.

9. Industrial Hygienist

Industrial hygienists are scientists and engineers who work to minimize the public health risks of the workplace environment. Hygienists conduct research on potentially dangerous workplace situations and devise strategies to minimize the public health risks of these situations. They train workers to avoid potentially hazardous situations, and they advise governments and regulators in the development of workplace standards to minimize health dangers.

Typical Workplace Environment Industrial hygienists will spend the majority of their time working in an office. However, industrial hygienists occasionally need to travel to inspect facilities or conduct research. While traveling, industrial hygienists may be exposed to many environments, including potentially hazardous and dangerous setting. Specialized training may be required.

Education/Training Requirements: Bachelor’s, Certification/Licensure To become an Industrial Hygienist, an individual first needs to earn a bachelor’s degree in engineering, chemistry or physics. To apply for certification with the American Industrial Hygiene Association, workers must have at least three years of professional experience as well, though a master’s degree counts for one, and a PhD counts for two years of experience.

Salary: $66,820-$86,720 Industrial Hygiene ranges depending on the level of education and responsibility involved. Some professionals in industrial hygiene fall under the BLS category of Occupational Health and Safety Specialists and Technicians, which make around $66,820 annual salary. However, Health and Safety Engineers have a role in Industrial Hygiene as well, and they may make $86,720 per year. In either case, Industrial Hygiene as a field is growing solidly at an average rate.

10. Medical Writer

Medical writers’ responsibilities include crafting documents on medical issues in clear and concise language. Medical writers contribute to public health by writing press releases, web content, and patient education materials for medical centers and other organizations. In addition, medical writers prepare reports for companies seeking approval for new medicines and medical devices that might benefit the public.

Typical Working Environment Medical writers work for a variety of employers including hospitals, medical schools and private pharmaceutical, marketing or research companies. Approximately 30% of medical writers are freelancers.

Salary: $69,850 Salaries for medical writers vary based on the individual writer’s location, employer, education level, and the type of writing. BLS data on technical writers, a category that would include medical writers, finds a median salary of $69,850. Medical writers are highly sought-after, due to the specialized nature of the work, and their employment outlook is expected to improve as the healthcare industry expands to meet demand.

11. Disease Ecologist

Disease ecologists research the relationship between diseases and their hosts, and use that knowledge to evaluate the impact of ecological changes on the spread of infectious diseases and other pathogens. They help determine the origin of diseases (particularly the ones that spread from animals to humans) and provide evidence to help control and eradicate harmful parasites and pathogens.

Typical Workplace Environment Disease ecologists work in a variety of settings, but primarily in academic settings. A specialist in disease ecology will often work in a university or other higher education setting as a professor. Others work in laboratories, public health organizations, national parks, state parks, and similar locations. Some field work will be involved in research, which includes the potential for travel.

Education/Training Requirements: Master’s, Doctorate Disease Ecology is a highly interdisciplinary field, and an extensive level of higher education is required. University professors will require a PhD degree in the field, as well as a history of published research. Researchers working in academic laboratories or private sector may only require a master’s degree.

Salary: $68,910 According to the BLS, Disease Ecologists, like other environmental scientists and specialists, can expect a median salary of around $68,910. Pay is determined partly by geographical location and partly by one’s seniority in the field. The career outlook for disease ecologists is good, particularly as companies and governments become more concerned with how they impact the environment.

12. Public Health Nurse

The job of a public health nurse is to improve community health. Public Health Nurses provide both clinical care, and program development and administration, often improving healthcare access to areas that lack adequate medical services.

Typical Workplace Environment Public health nurses usually work for government agencies, community health centers and many other organizations that improve community access to health care. They sometimes work in multidisciplinary teams to solve public health concerns. According to the Association of Public Health Nurses, nurses are the largest part of the public health workforce.

Education/Training Requirements: Diploma, Associate’s, Bachelor’s Public Health Nurses usually must be registered nurses in the states where they practice. These requirements vary between states, but in most states, an RN needs a hospital diploma or associate’s degree, and must pass the NCLEX exam. For nurses who want to work in public health, a BSN with a public health certificate may be necessary.

Salary Range: $68,450 The average salary of a registered nurse, according to the BLS, is $68,450 a year. Specialists in public health may expect to make more, however, The employment outlook for this position is encouraging, with job demand increasing 15% by 2026. The expected growth for public health nurses is excellent because of the increasing demand for nurses in the healthcare industry.

13. Health Promotion Program Coordinator

Health promotion program coordinators oversee the planning and management of public health promotion programs. They work closely with program developers, managers and outcomes researchers. Program coordinators may develop educational materials and are generally required to apply for grant funding for their programs.

Typical Workplace Environment Health promotion program coordinators generally work for government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and universities. They spend the majority of their time in an office environment. Some travel will be necessary, as coordinators will need to go to locations where their plans are being implemented.

Education/Training Requirements: Bachelor’s, Master’s Health promotion program coordinators generally hold at least a bachelor’s degree in public health or a related field. Many organizations require job candidates to hold a master’s degree. Most health promotion program coordinators should also have prior experience in program management.

Salary: $67,280 Salaries for Health Promotion Program Coordinators are generally based upon the size of a program and an individual’s previous experience. The BLS does not classify program or project coordinators; they would fall under the category of Operations Specialists. Professionals in this general field can expect median salaries of $67,280. Demand for health promotion program coordinators is rising at a steady rate, especially in urban areas where public health has more financial support.

14. Consumer Safety Officer

Consumer safety officers work to enforce the regulations of the FDA. These officers investigate violations of FDA regulations and start legal actions against violators. Additionally, consumer safety officers help all levels of the public to interpret FDA regulations. Consumer safety officers help design inspection procedures, and they also help coordinate the approval of new drugs.

Typical Workplace Environment Most of a consumer safety officer’s days will be spent working out of an office. However, consumer safety officers will often need to travel to the site of an investigation. Officers may be forced to work in a variety of different environments while working on-site, including potential exposure to hazards.

Education/Training Requirements: Bachelor’sAccording to the FDA, which most commonly hires Consumer Safety Officers, applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline related to consumer safety (such as biology, chemistry, epidemiology, or pharmacy). Advancement in the field will require experience, a graduate degree, or both.

Salary: $66,820 According to the BLS, the general field of occupational health and safety specialists and technicians make a median salary of $66,820. The FDA is almost always hiring for this position, but there are few openings and competition is fierce, and FDA salaries range from as low as $29,000 to as high as $75,000.

15. Health Inspector

Health inspectors’ responsibilities include inspecting public buildings as well as businesses such as restaurants for safety and health code violations. Other duties of public health inspectors include writing reports and issuing citations.

Typical Workplace Environment In most cases, Public Health Inspectors will work for government agencies, usually at the state or local level. Others may work for private consulting firms, or companies that specialize in cleaning up biohazards or protecting worker safety. Part of a health inspector’s job, such as writing reports or researching, will be done in an office environment, but more often inspectors will be working in the field. Health inspectors may potentially be exposed to hazardous or dangerous environments, so specialized training is necessary.

Education/Training Requirements: Associate’s or Bachelor’s Education requirements for public health inspectors generally include an associate’s or a bachelor’s degree in science or public safety. If a health inspector chooses to specialize – in biohazards, for instance – further certifications may be necessary.

Salary: $66,820 Salaries for public health inspectors are based on each inspector’s location, education level and number of years of experience. The BLS does not list Public Health Inspector as a specific occupation, but it falls within the broader category of Occupational Health and Safety Specialists and Technicians. This field shows a median salary of $66,820, and a steady increase in demand of 8% through 2026. As long as there are regulations, there will be a job for inspectors.

16. NGO Director

Individuals who direct nongovernmental organizations (NGOs) are responsible for a wide variety of managerial and oversight tasks. They are generally required to manage organizational initiatives and budgets. NGO directors must be passionate about the communities with which they work.

Typical Workplace Environment NGO directors lead nonprofit organizations; in the public health sector, these may be community health programs, charities, and advocacy groups. They do the majority of their work in the home offices of such organizations. However, NGO directors are expected to visit the communities in which they work on a regular basis. They may be required to travel extensively, particularly for fundraising efforts.

Education/Training Requirement: Bachelor’s, Master’s The majority of NGO directors hold at least a four-year degree in liberal arts, social sciences, or a field closely affiliated with the area in which their NGO works. Many NGO directors also hold an MBA or other advanced management degrees. They must have extensive experience working with NGOs.

Salary: $64,680 Salaries for NGO directors vary greatly depending on the location and prominence of the organization. While directors of well-known, national NGOs may make salaries on par with corporate executives, the majority of NGOs are smaller community organizations. According to the BLS, the median salary for Social and Community Service Managers, which includes NGO Directors, is $64,680. The field is currently growing at 16%, but growth can fluctuate widely with economic upturns and downturns and changes in government policy.

17. Nutritionist/Dietician

Nutritionists are experts in the dietary requirements of human beings. They analyze the eating habits and characteristics of patients and clients to create meal plans and administer advice on eating for specific health goals or to maintain general health.

Typical Workplace Environment Nearly one-third of nutritionists are employed by hospitals, while 10% work in outpatient clinics or doctors’ offices, and 9% work in nursing homes. The other main employment sector is government, including schools, cafeterias, and health education agencies. A small percentage of nutritionists are self-employed and work from home offices.

Education/Training Requirements: Bachelor’s In most states, nutritionists must be licensed by the state in order to make meal plans or give advice. For licensure, nutritionists usually need a bachelor’s degree in nutrition, food management or a similar discipline, though a degree may not always be required. In a few states (including Colorado, Arizona, and California), no degree or license is necessary. Academic programs are usually readily available for students who wish to earn a registered dietitian (RD) credential, including many online dietitian programs.

Salary Range: $58,920According to the BLS, the median salary for nutritionists and dietitians in the U.S. $58,920. The number of available jobs for dietitians is expected to rise by 14% from 2016 to 2026, as the link between dietary health and public health continues to grow in recognition.

18. Public Health Information Officer

Public health information officers are responsible for providing information about major health issues to the public and for promoting disease prevention. Part of the job of an information officer is analyzing and determining the best means of informing the public of a public health topic or issue. Public health information officers also provide information about clinics and health programs to the general public.

Typical Workplace Environment The majority of public health information officers work in public health departments, government agencies, or large hospitals. They spend most of their time in the office but may give presentations to the general public or professional groups outside of the office. At times, a public health information officer may be called upon to make media appearances, such as for the news or for PSAs.

Education/Training Requirements: Bachelor’s The role of Public Health Information Officer combines elements of public health with knowledge of public relations and communications. A person planning a career in the field would be wise to earn at least a bachelor’s degree with a major and minor, or double major, in those areas.

Salary: $58,020 Experienced public health information officers work in the area of public relations, and according to the BLS, public relations specialists can expect a median salary of $58,020. However, the very specialized nature of a public health information officer – who must have knowledge of public health as well as public relations – can mean a higher pay. Demand for specialists in this area is expected to remain high for the foreseeable future.

19. Medical Investigator

Medical investigators are responsible for collecting and examining evidence in order to determine the cause of death in criminal investigations. They may also be asked to investigate unattended deaths to determine if the individual died from natural causes. Medical investigators are required to keep thorough documentation to establish a chain of evidence.

Typical Workplace Environment The majority of medical investigators work in medical examiner’s offices and forensics labs. They may be required to visit crime scenes in order to collect evidence and examine the deceased. They may be required to testify about evidence collection and handling in court.

Education/Training Requirements: Bachelor’s Medical investigators generally hold at least a bachelor’s degree in forensic science. Some medical investigators may be pre-med students who are working towards earning their medical degrees. Most medical investigators receive extensive on-the-job training.

Salary: $56,750 The salary range for medical investigators varies depending upon experience. BLS statistics show the median salary for a medical investigator at $56,750. The demand for medical investigators, like other forensic scientists, is growing much faster than average, at around 17% between 2016 and 2026.

20. Reproductive Health Specialist

Reproductive health specialists provide essential services and health education to the general public. They assist with family planning tasks and may take samples for HIV/AIDS and STD testing. Some reproductive health specialists also handle basic medical billing and reception duties.

Typical Workplace Environment The majority of reproductive health specialists work in family planning-oriented health facilities, such as Planned Parenthood or community health clinics. They may also work in an educational capacity in schools or community centers. Reproductive health specialists work for both government agencies and private organizations.

Education/Training Requirements: Certificate to Bachelor’s Reproductive health specialists should have some prior training or experience in medical assisting. Facilities in some states require reproductive health specialists to hold a medical assisting license. For other positions, reproductive health specialists should have some training in public health, or in healthcare administration.

Salary Range: $31,540 Salaries for reproductive health specialists vary greatly according to geographic region and role. For lower-level medical assistants or office assistants, the BLS puts median salaries at around $31,540 per year. Salaries increase significantly as reproductive health specialists gain experience in this field. The demand for these specialists is growing at a rate much faster than demand for trained professionals in almost all other fields, at 29% from 2016-2026.

21. Behavioral Health Program Coordinator

Behavioral Health Program Coordinators work on the administrative side of the mental health field to plan and implement programs in mental health. They closely with mental health professionals, patients, and the general community to provide high-quality behavioral health services. They are required to work closely with case managers in order to evaluate program strengths and weaknesses.

Typical Workplace Environment The majority of behavioral health program coordinators work in public mental health and behavioral health facilities. They complete most tasks in an office environment but are also required to interface with the public at special events. Some behavioral health program coordinators may work at schools and universities.

Education/Training Requirements: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate Most behavioral health program coordinators hold at least bachelor’s degree in psychology or a closely related field. They may be required to have previous administrative or managerial experience and must pass a background check. Some facilities require program coordinators to hold advanced degrees in psychology or nursing.

Salary: $96,540 Compensation for behavioral health program coordinators depends largely on whether they work in public or private facilities. Falling within the BLS category of medical and health services managers, salary expectation for Behavioral Health Program Coordinators could be as high as $96,540. The demand for specialists in this field is growing by 20% between 2016 and 2026, much faster than average.

Typical Workplace Environment Nearly 40 percent of all health center administrators in the U.S. work at hospitals. Other common employers include doctors’ offices, nursing homes, home healthcare companies, and outpatient clinics. Most health center administrators work full time and may be required to work overtime during the week or on weekends.

Education/Training Requirements: Master’s The minimum educational requirement for health center administrators is a bachelor’s degree, but most people employed in this position hold at least master’s degree in healthcare administration, health services, public health, or business administration. Some health centers may employ individuals based on past work experience in lieu of formal education.

Salary: $96,540 The field of medical and health services management is growing and rewarding. BLS statistics report salaries of $96,540 as a median for administrators in the healthcare field, and the expected job growth between 2016 and 2026 is 20% – well above average.

23. Management Policy Advisor

Management policy advisors are responsible for analyzing management activity and suggesting policy changes at nonprofit and for-profit organizations, corporations, and government bodies. Individuals in these roles are generally considered members of an executive leadership team.

Typical Workplace Environment Most management policy advisors work in an office environment. They may work in health organizations, private corporations, and at government agencies. Policy advisors are required to familiarize themselves with all branches of an organization or business. Some advisors travel extensively, especially those who work for corporations with many sites, or as independent consultants.

Education/Training Requirements: Master’s Management policy advisors may hold an advanced degree in public health and have prior experience in leadership roles. They must have extensive experience in the public health field. Many policy advisors also hold MBA degrees.

Salary: $81,330 Salaries for management policy advisors vary greatly depending upon workplace environment. Those individuals who work for federal agencies and private companies tend to earn significantly higher salaries than those individuals who work for nonprofit organizations. The BLS reports median salary for management advisors and analysts at $81,330. Demand for talented management policy advisors is growing at 12%, an above-average rate.

24. Hazardous Waste Inspector

Hazardous waste inspectors protect public health by conducting inspections at waste treatment facilities, evaluating waste handling practices, and providing education to the public. They must have a strong understanding of local, state and federal laws governing hazardous waste handling and treatment standards.

Typical Workplace Environment Hazardous waste inspectors work for municipal or government facilities and for private waste management facilities. They spend most of their time in such facilities or inspecting waste handling along the waste management and disposal route for a given area. Some hazardous waste inspectors also visit citizens in their communities to provide household waste handling training.

Salary: $70,920 Hazardous waste inspectors do a dangerous job, and are generally paid well for it. The BLS reports that health and safety specialists, such as hazardous waste inspectors, make a median salary of $70,920.

25. Environmental Health Emergency Response Specialist

Environmental Health Emergency Response Specialists work to coordinate efforts to rescue and assist affected members of a population that has experienced an environmental health emergency. These professionals also work to establish plans of action in case of an emergency.

Typical Workplace Environment Environmental Health Emergency Response Specialists work in the field in conjunction with community leaders in order to put emergency preparedness plans into place. During an emergency, these professionals will work in the field to ensure that plans are being carried out. In most cases, Emergency Response Specialists will work for federal or state government, but some many work in the private sector for government contractors.

Education/Training Requirements: Bachelor’s, Master’s Environmental Health Emergency Response Specialists are generally required to hold a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in environmental science, biology or chemistry. For higher positions such as an emergency response director, several years of experience in emergency response of public health may be necessary.

Salary: $70,500 According to the BLS, Emergency Management Directors – a category that would include many Environmental Health Emergency Response Specialists – make a median salary of $70,500. As natural disasters have been increasing in recent years, and response becomes more sophisticated, the field is expected to grow by 8% in the next decade.

26. Director of Family Health Services

Directors of family health services are responsible for overseeing the operation of public family health centers. Individuals in these roles are required to manage facility finances, handle human resources issues, and actively participate in long-term facility planning.

Typical Workplace Environment Directors of family health services work in public and private family health centers. While directors will have some contact with the clinical portion of the center, the director’s job is primarily done in an office setting.

Education/Training Requirements: Master’s Most directors of family health services hold a master’s degree in public health. They must have extensive experience in health facilities management. Some individuals in these roles may hold advanced nursing degrees in addition to a public health or management degree.

Salary: $64,680-$96,540 Salaries for directors of family health services are largely dependent upon the size of the facility and the geographic location. While some directors may make an income similar to that of a community service manager – $64,680 according to the BLS – others may be in the range of a medical administrator, at $96,540. While demand for talented individuals in these roles remains steady, there are generally only a few openings for directors of health family services nationwide every year.

27. Health Communications Specialist

Health Communications Specialists are marketing and public relations experts who work to provide information to the public and media about illness and healthy living. They package new research and clinical trial results in understandable formats for public use. They also advocate for public health initiatives and guide public understanding about control of epidemics and healthy lifestyles.

Typical Workplace Environment Health Communications Specialists can work in a variety of settings, including public venues, offices, and community settings. Specialists can be planning events, drafting press releases and communicating with media outlets.

Education/Training Requirements: Bachelor’s Common requirements for Health Communication Specialists are five years in related communication, including business and healthcare, and a bachelor’s degree in fields like journalism, communications, public relations, or marketing. Specialists also must be skilled in writing, the production of publications, and presentations for use in media.

Salary: $58,020 Health Communications Specialists are specialized public relations or marketing experts, and their salary expectations correspond to the field. According to the BLS, public relations specialists make a median salary of $58,020. In general, the field is growing at an average pace, but the healthcare field is growing much faster.

28. Health Teacher

Health teachers help students understand how the body works and how to lead healthy lives. These teachers may offer general courses or may specialize in an area such as mental health, sexual health, physical fitness, or disease prevention. Teachers in this field work with children, teens, and young adults in educational settings.

Typical Workplace Environment Health teachers typically work in public or private elementary schools, middle schools, secondary schools, and universities. They may also participate in community outreach by visiting students’ homes, offering after-school events, and giving seminars at places of business.

Education/Training Requirements: Bachelor’s, Master’s, Doctorate Health teachers working in primary or secondary schools must hold at least a bachelor’s degree in health education. Those teachers who want to work in universities and hospitals may be required to hold an MA or PhD in public health or a specialized health field. Many states also require educators to hold a teaching credential certification specific to that state.

Salary: $55,490 Salaries for health teachers vary significantly depending on geographic location and workplace environment. Elementary school health teachers make a median of $55,490, while high school teachers make $58,030, according to the BLS. College and university professors, in turn, make a median salary of $75,430.

29. Community Health Worker

Community Health Workers promote healthy living by educating people in their communities about disease prevention and by connecting them to formal health and human service systems. In addition to providing informal counseling and support, they often advocate for the health needs of their community, while building community members’ capacity act to on their own behalf.

Typical Workplace Environment Community Health Workers can be found in hospitals, community health centers, social service organizations, and public health departments. However, they spend most of their time actively engaging with the community rather than in an office.

Education/Training Requirements: Certification to Bachelor’s Education requirements for Community Health Workers vary by state, city, and employer. Workers typically undergo some formal training and certification process, though they do not always possess a college degree.

Salary Range: $44,390 According to the BLS, the median salary for Community Health Workers is around $44,390. The Employment outlook for Community Health Workers is especially promising, with jobs going up 16% by 2026.

30. Environmental Health Technician

Environmental health technicians perform tests in the field or in laboratories to monitor the state of the environment for risks to public health. Among the tests most commonly performed is the measurement of pollution levels. Environmental health technicians work under the supervision of environmental specialists.

Typical Workplace Environment Environmental health technicians may perform their duties in the field, in offices, or in laboratory settings. Most of these technicians work for scientific and technical consulting firms, but others work for the government, for hospitals, or for testing laboratories.

Education/Training Requirements: Associate’s Some entry-level positions for environmental health technicians may require only a high school diploma, but most employers will require applicants to have an associate’s degree or a certification in environmental studies or geographic information systems.

Salary: $44,109 By BLS statistics, the median salary for environmental health technicians is $44,190. While funding for environmental health may fluctuate, the BLS projects job growth in the field to increase by 12% from 2016-2026 as pollution continues to have negative impact on public health.

31. Public Health Journalist

Public health journalists are responsible for writing feature stories and articles about medical topics that are of interest to the general public. They communicate crucial information about new vaccinations and epidemics to a broad audience.

Typical Workplace Environment Most public health journalists work for major newspapers, magazines and trade journals. Others may work for web publications or in social media journalism. Such journalists work out of an office, though their research may require them to go out into the field.

Education/Training Requirements: Bachelor’s, Master’s Public health journalists generally hold bachelor’s or master’s degrees in journalism, technical writing, or a related field. They receive extensive, long-term training from their employers. Journalists who wish to work for magazines or trade journals are generally required to have some previous experience working for a newspaper.

Salary: $38,870 Pay for public health journalists varies greatly depending on the type of publication for which they work. The median salary for journalists, according to the BLS, is around $38,870. However, demand for public health journalists may be higher than demand for journalists in other fields, due to the technical nature of health reporting.

32. Legislative Policy Advisor

Legislative policy advisors use their political, legal, and medical expertise to influence, guide, and inform the politicians and organizations for whom they work. They are responsible for researching the benefits and drawbacks of legislation related to public health.

Typical Workplace Environment Legislative policy advisors work for individual politicians, advocacy organizations, and think tanks. The majority of their work is conducted in an office environment. They may also spend a great deal of time doing research in hospitals and law libraries.

Education/Training Requirements: N/A The level of education for a policy advisor can vary tremendously. They may have extensive experience in either the public health or legal field prior to advancing into advisor roles. Many legislative policy advisors hold both advanced legal and medical training.

Salary: N/A Salaries for legislative policy advisors vary greatly depending upon whether they work for nonprofit advocacy organizations or private groups and politicians. The BLS does not keep data on policy advisors or analysts, as such jobs are rare and unregulated. https://www.bls.gov/careeroutlook/2007/spring/art03.pdf

33. Infection Preventionist

Infection Preventionists analyze data to determine whether a certain infection is likely to be an issue and work with the community to educate the public about infection prevention. They may be tasked with informing the public about the need for medications or immunizations that will help prevent infection before it spreads.

Typical Workplace Environment Infection Preventionists generally work in the field in conjunction with the leaders of a community to help prevent the spread of infection.

Education/Training Requirements Infection Preventionists are typically required to hold a master’s degree in public health from an accredited university. Some employers may even prefer to hire an Infection Preventionist who holds a doctorate in public health.

Salary Range & Employment Outlook The salary of an Infection Preventionist varies widely. The salary ranges from $40,000 – $100,000, and individuals who work in metropolitan areas and are employed by a government agency make the most. Demand for Infection Preventionists is projected to grow faster than other occupations.

34. Pharmacoepidemiologist

Pharmacoepidemiologists belong to a subset of epidemiologists, who are clinical researchers responsible for investigating the cause and spread of disease. Pharmacoepidemiologists incorporate the discipline of pharmacology into epidemiology in order to study the beneficial effects of drugs and their risks when administered to large groups of people.

Typical Workplace Environment Over half of all pharmacoepidemiologists work for local, state and federal governments. Those that do not work for the government are employed by hospitals, universities, medical research firms and pharmaceutical companies.

Education/Training Requirements Pharmacoepidemiologists require a master’s degree to be eligible for entry-level positions. Degrees in public health are common, but they may also be in epidemiology, pharmacology or another field that focuses on public health and biostatistics.

Salary Range and Employment Outlook The median wage of pharmacoepidemiologists in 2010 was $63,010. However, the salaries of the middle 80 percent ranged from $42,360 to $98,380. Pharmacoepidemiologists working for private pharmaceutical companies earned the highest wages while those working for the government earned the least. Jobs for pharmacoepidemiologists are expected to grow by 24 percent through 2020.

35. Emergency Preparedness and Bioterrorism Coordinator

Emergency preparedness and bioterrorism coordinators work with local health departments to ensure that sufficient staff are in place in case of bioterrorist attacks or public health emergencies. They work closely with policy advisors to implement emergency management plans and oversee staff training.

Typical Workplace Environment Emergency preparedness and bioterrorism coordinators work in health departments and with government agencies. They split their time between a traditional office environment and the field.

Education/Training Requirements Coordinators in these positions are generally required to hold an M.A. degree in public health. Some individuals who hold nursing degrees or B.A. degrees in public health qualify for these jobs so long as they also have at least two years of work experience in the emergency preparedness field.

Salary Range & Employment Outlook The salary range for emergency preparedness and bioterrorism coordinators varies significantly depending upon geographic area. Most individuals in these roles earn between $40,000 – $75,000 per year. Demand for emergency preparedness and bioterrorism coordinators is growing rapidly across the U.S.

36. Public Health Dentist

Public Health Dentists contribute a wide range of knowledge to the community regarding oral health. They provide dental care at clinics, consult community-based dental programs, advise in forming oral policy and educate the public about oral health.

Typical Workplace Environment Public Health Dentists spend most of their time in meetings or in the clinic, depending on their seniority. They can be found in universities, health centers, clinics and public health departments.

Education/Training Requirements Senior Public Health Dentists must have a doctorate degree in dental surgery or medicine. They should also have a license to practice. Additionally, some Public Health Dentists obtain a Master’s in Public Health degree. However, becoming a hygienist does not require a 4-year college degree.

Salary Range & Employment Outlook Salaries range from $30,000 for hygienists to over $250,000 for more senior positions. Salaries vary by education and experience. Demand for Public Health Dentists is expected to increase faster than average.

37. Corporate Medical Director

Corporate Medical Directors oversee the health of a corporation’s employees and employ measures to prevent injury and spread of sickness. They deal with a wide range of occupational settings, including offices and factories. They also work to address a variety of issues like air quality and injury prevention.

Typical Workplace Environment Corporate Medical Directors usually can be found in office and industrial settings. They can be conducting meetings, reading reports, working with office or factory designers and meeting with employees.

Education/Training Requirements Corporate Medical Directors should have an M.D. and around 10 years of medical experience prior to being promoted to such a title. Board certification within a specialty may be required, depending on the setting.

Salary Range & Employment Outlook Salaries range from $120,000 to $236,000 or more based on the size and scope of the employer. Demand for Corporate Medical Directors is strong, with the insurance, pharmaceutical, biotechnology and healthcare industries fueling growth.

38. Public Health Physician

Public health physicians focus on ensuring that quality medical care is available to all members of the general public by conducting research, teaching health classes and handling leadership duties. They also work directly with patients to diagnose illnesses. Many public health physicians are considered preventative medicine physicians.

Typical Workplace Environment Public health physicians work at hospitals, public health facilities, universities and government agencies. Most public health physicians spend about 50 percent of their time working in their offices and 50 percent of their time interacting with the public at medical facilities.

Education/Training Requirements Public health physicians must hold medical degrees. They are generally required to be board-certified preventative medicine specialists. Some public health physicians hold an M.A. degree in public health.

Salary Range & Employment Outlook Salaries for public health physicians vary somewhat depending upon geographic location and previous experience in this field. Most public health physicians earn between $150,000 – $200,000 per year. Demand for public health physicians is projected to grow at an above-average rate until at least 2020.

39. Tropical Disease Specialist

Tropical Disease Specialists assist with maintaining the health of the general population by preventing the spread of tropical diseases. Tropical diseases are often highly infectious and can put the public in danger, so Tropical Disease Specialists are essential public health professionals.

Typical Workplace Environment Tropical Disease Specialists typically work in the field examining patients who have recently traveled abroad or have been in contact with someone who has traveled to a tropical location. These professionals may also work in a laboratory to analyze samples.

Education/Training Requirements Most Tropical Disease Specialists are doctors, so a medical degree is required for this specialization. Additional knowledge pertinent to the cause and spread of tropical diseases in particular is necessary. Tropical Disease Specialists may enroll in coursework specific to tropical diseases during medical school.

Salary Range & Employment Outlook The salary for Tropical Disease Specialists ranges from $115,000 to $190,000. Professionals who work in large metropolitan areas for government agencies tend to make more than those employed by medical offices in suburban areas.

40. Public Health Veterinarian

Public health veterinarians work with federal and local government agencies, hospitals, legislators and the general public to monitor, control, prevent and reduce both human and animal illness. Acting as researchers, pathologists, epidemiologists and other specialists, they investigate and monitor outbreaks of diseases that animals can transmit to humans such as rabies, malaria, Ebola and West Nile virus. They may also monitor farm and processing plant environments as well as the safety and quality of animal-derived medicines, cosmetics and food products.

Typical Workplace Environment Public health veterinarians may work in a clinic, office, laboratory or outdoor environment exclusively, or they may perform duties in a variety of settings. Some may be required to travel.

Education/Training Requirements A position as a public health veterinarian typically requires both a doctor of veterinary medicine and master of public health degree.

Salary Range & Employment Outlook The average median salary range for public health veterinarians is $100,000 – $150,000. The demand for these specialists is expected to increase significantly over the next decade.

41. Bioterrorism Researcher

Bioterrorism researchers work with state and federal agencies to identify biological pathogens, develop means to diagnose new diseases and evaluate how quickly new treatments can be developed following a bioterrorist attack. They analyze both known toxins and predict the types of toxins that might be used in future attacks.

Typical Workplace Environment Most bioterrorism researchers work in a laboratory environment. The majority of researchers in this field are employed at major government health organizations. Some bioterrorism researchers may work in private laboratories or in university research settings.

Education/Training Requirements Bioterrorism researchers are generally required to hold a doctoral degree in immunology, microbiology, virology, genetics or a related field. Many professionals in this field also hold M.A. degrees in public health.

Salary Range & Employment Outlook Salaries for bioterrorism researchers vary significantly according to experience level and geographic location. The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that the salary range for such jobs runs between $40,000 – $150,000 per year. Increases in funding for bioterrorism research have led to an increased demand for specialists in this field.

42. Vaccine Researcher

Vaccine research requires the work of people in several different positions in the healthcare field, including medical doctors, medical scientists, microbiologists, and clinical lab technicians. Vaccine researchers act together to improve existing vaccines and create new ones that are capable of preventing viral diseases.

Typical Workplace Environment Nearly all vaccine researchers work in laboratory settings for various organizations. Most conduct their research for private medical and pharmaceutical companies. Other vaccine researchers work for universities, the government or general hospitals. Specific duties and work environments depend on the role and occupation of the individual.

Education/Training Requirements Most positions as vaccine researchers require doctoral degrees, such as an M.D. or Ph.D. in one of the biological sciences. Some employers may require that researchers hold both an M.D. and a Ph.D.

Salary Range and Employment Outlook In 2010, the median salary of vaccine researchers was $76,700. However, some vaccine researchers made less than $41,560 and others made more than $142,800. The growth rate for jobs as vaccine researchers is one of the highest in the country. Job opportunities are expected to increase by 36 percent from 2010 to 2020.

43. Outcomes Researcher

Outcomes researchers study the effectiveness of healthcare practices and programs. They analyze both how well treatments worked and the quality of life that patients enjoyed after receiving such treatments. Outcomes researchers compile and analyze their collected data for presentation to health facility boards and stakeholders.

Typical Workplace Environment Most outcomes researchers work out of offices in hospitals and public health facilities. While they do spend time gathering data in the field, they spend the vast majority of their workday analyzing collected data using special computer programs.

Education/Training Requirements Outcomes researchers must be familiar with public health issues, medical practices and statistical analysis. As such, they are generally required to hold a doctorate degree in epidemiology or public health. They must have training in outcomes research, which is usually gained by working in a university research laboratory.

Salary Range & Employment Outlook Most outcomes researchers are classified as health scientists or statisticians. Salaries for these jobs range between $85,000 – $134,000 per year. Demand for researchers, especially in federally run agencies, is increasing steadily.

44. Mental Health Researcher

Mental Health Researchers explore how mental health interacts with people and environment. They examine the roots, prevention and treatment of mental conditions with respect to the public and promote awareness within the community.

Typical Workplace Environment Mental Health Researchers largely spend their time conducting research, both observing in the field and conducting experiments. Researchers also meet with community groups and related consultants to discuss findings and plan future research topics.

Education/Training Requirements Mental Health Researchers have at least a Master’s degree, with most having a Ph.D. or M.D. Through obtaining these advanced degrees, Mental Health Researchers develop the research and communication skills required to study mental health.

Salary Range & Employment Outlook Salary can range from $53,000 to $110,000, depending largely on seniority and place of employment. Employment for Mental Health Researchers exists if the proposed research topics warrant funding.

45. Behavior Scientist

Behavior science is a wide discipline that includes psychologists, cognitive scientists and social neuroscientists. Behavior scientists focusing on public health study how people interact with each other, and they seek to discover the processes behind the decisions made by people.

Typical Workplace Environment Approximately 34 percent of behavior scientists are self-employed, and the majority of them are psychologists. Nearly 30 percent work for schools or educational services while 20 percent work for the healthcare industry.

Education/Training Requirements Most behavior scientists hold some form of doctoral degree, which may include a Ph.D. in psychology or a related discipline or a doctor of psychology (Psy.D.) degree. However, some behavior scientists working in technical capacities may be able to find jobs with a master’s degree. Most states require that behavior scientists are licensed or certified.

Salary Range and Employment Outlook The median annual wage of behavior scientists in 2010 was $68,640. However, the bottom 10 percent earned less than $39,200, and the top 10 percent earned over $111,810. Growth in this field is expected to increase by 22 percent through 2020.

45. Professor of Public Health

Professors of public health have a major impact on public health because they are responsible for teaching future public health workers. The duties of a professor of public health include lecturing, grading papers and preparing course materials.

Typical Workplace Environment Professors of public health work at public and private colleges and universities.

Education and Training Required Education requirements for professors of public health vary. Some community colleges may require only a master’s degree while many universities require a Ph.D.

Typical Salary Range and Job Outlook Professors of public health receive anywhere from $40,000 to over $100,000 per year. Their salaries depend on many factors including the location and type of school at which they’re employed. For example, private universities generally pay more than public universities. The salary of a professor of public health will also depend upon whether he or she is a full, associate, assistant or adjunct professor. As with most health-related jobs, the employment outlook for professors of public health is excellent.